Five questions for Nancy Underwood

Each day, B.E.S.T. (Backstretch Employee Service Team) and West Point Thoroughbreds present a check for $100 to the Groom of the Day. Monday’s recipient was Antonio Amescua. I have worked for B.E.S.T. since April 2014. My background is in education. I have taught English as a second language and I was also an assistant high school principal in Poultney, Vt.

2 What other programs is B.E.S.T. involved with?

Advertisement

We’re currently working on a B.E.S.T. Steps Forward campaign. The goal is to give new work shoes to all backstretch workers that have diabetes-related or chronic foot problems. The program was launched this spring at Belmont Park and in Saratoga this past Saturday. So far more than $10,000 has been given to the program, which will provide workers with high-quality, water-resistant shoes and socks. Backstretch workers quite often have to work in wet conditions, from bathing and cleaning horses.

3 How many people does B.E.S.T. treat for diabetes?

We treat more than 300 diabetics at our two primary care clinics. Most suffer from severe foot problems as a direct result of their illness. These “diabetes-approved” shoes were selected by B.E.S.T.’s Belmont-based podiatrist to provide workers with a shoe that will keep their feet dry and avoid irritation from previously existing foot sores.

4 Who started the campaign?

The campaign was developed by three private companies. They are Lew Mongelluzzo and Team Power Play Racing, the Pavilion Grand Hotel, and Mingle on the Avenue Restaurant in Saratoga Springs. Funding has come from a number of horse trainers and owners.

5 How can people donate to the campaign?

People may contact B.E.S.T. Executive Director Paul Ruchames by email (paul@bestbackstretch.com) or by calling (917) 566-3295. One hundred percent of all donations is used for the purchase of work shoes. Eventually, we would like to provide all backstretch workers with new shoes. They really deserve it. They are the backbone of the racing industry.

— By Paul Post

Do you know an interesting person who would be perfect for our Five Questions feature? Call 518-290-8943 or email ckraebel@digitalfirstmedia.com.